Teaching Bite Inhibition

Bite inhibition is an important part of dog training. It lets your dog know that he cannot clamp down on any of your body parts with his mouth, because he is powerful and do serious damage. Additionally, it is a proper part of socialization to get him ready for playing with other dogs without causing them pain. Truthfully, some of the more gentle dog breeds like Labradors learn this act almost instinctively. However, many dogs do need the training.

You should begin the bite inhibition training when your dog is around three months old, right before the adult teeth begin to come in. The training happens in three stages. First you stop your dog when he bites you too hard. Next you stop your dog when he comes into contact with your body with his teeth. And lastly, you prevent your dog from putting your body in his mouth at all. Again, many of the more easy going dogs will only need to learn the first step. Remember that bite inhibition is a natural thing, taught my the mother and litter mates. However, a human-raised dog needs its owner or a trainer to teach him right from wrong.

First and foremost, you must make it clear to your dog that the bite causes you pain. That is what his mother or other dogs would do in the situation, and that is what he understands. Some people let out a yelp, while others exclaim “ouch.” Do what works best for you, but be sure you are getting your dog’s attention. However, do not startle him to the point that he becomes defensive. And never, ever get physical. You know your dog’s personality, so make your reaction appropriate.

Once you send the signal that it hurts you, end the playtime or interaction. The two signals together, the cry of pain and the end of the attention, will quickly teach your dog that he cannot bite you. He really wants your love and attention more than anything, so he will behave appropriately in order to receive it.